It is with great sadness we announce that the husband, father, grandfather and friend, Calvin K. Pon, passed away peacefully at home on his own terms, after a year of successfully battling cancer and a short but valiant fight against ALS.

Born and raised in Parkdale, Cal was the second of three children of Dr. Fred and Alice Pon. Growing up, he was actively involved in activities such as basketball, bowling, football, and sport fishing.

In the early 1960’s he first met his partner and wife-to-be, Rosemary, on the Dovercourt tennis courts where it was game, set and match. They were often out on the town at endless parties dancing to the beat of their generation while enjoying good times with family and friends around Toronto. Cal was quickly indoctrinated into the Young family and became an “extra set of hands” carrying baskets of tomatoes, apples and peaches at 561. After passing the litmus test, 1966 was a year of celebration. The dynamic duo got hitched and welcomed their first born Jennifer, followed two years later by their son Christopher.

Cal loved his cars, especially his Dodge Coronet 500, the Beach Boys and shared this passion with Chris. Many weekends were spent at the dragstrip with his brothers-in-law which continued over the years. In his mid-30’s, Cal headed back to the tennis courts with his family and friends, coached Jennifer’s gymnastic team and hit the links, all setting the foundation for his extra-curricular activities over the following years. He was renowned for his wry sense of humour which was core to his character.

He enjoyed many years working at Gilbey’s where he established many long-term friendships. Eventually, his entrepreneurial spirit took over and he started his own embroidery company which kept him busy for the next two decades. He finally sold the company leading to his retirement in 2019.

Cal was a foodie at heart and an avid viewer of televised sports. Hawaii and Florida were two of his and Rosemary’s favorite places to explore, walk on the beach and play tennis. He wouldn’t admit it, but he had a 20-year soft spot for the family cat, Mocha. Two of his proudest moments were the arrival of his grandchildren, Liam and Kalle. As they grew up over the years, Cal happily attended their activities whether it be soccer, hockey or ballet performances and always encouraged them to be their best.

Our deepest appreciation to family and friends who were so supportive throughout his challenging journey. You helped make a difficult situation, more bearable for us. THANK YOU!

We also thank his palliative care unit from LHIN and the numerous doctors, nurses and PSWs who made his final weeks easier. In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask you to make a donation, in his honor, to Sunnybrook Foundation (Odette Cancer Centre), Canadian Cancer Society (Prostate Cancer Research) or ALS Canada.

Let’s keep Cal’s spirit alive by remembering him the next time you enjoy your favorite meal or hear the rumble of some “Good Vibrations”!

NOTE: PLEASE CHECK OUT THE MEDIA TAB AND CLICK ON THE “VIDEO” SECTION TO VIEW SOME FOND MEMORIES OF CAL!